The National Fish Passage Program restores streams

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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service joined with community partners across the nation to remove or bypass 158 dams, culverts and other structures in 2011, opening more than 2,180 miles of streams to native fish populations.

These efforts, coordinated through the National Fish Passage Program, have contributed to improved water quality, provided additional recreational and economic opportunities and addressed serious threats to human health and safety.

"The National Fish Passage Program serves as a vital catalyst for grass-roots community action that not only benefits native species and habitat, but also contributes to local economies and addresses aging and sometimes dangerous infrastructure," said Dan Ashe, service director. "Everyone wins when rivers and streams are allowed to flow freely again."